Welcome to our Akron-Summit County Public Library History Digital Exhibit!

The images presented here are all found in the Library History Collection held by the Special Collections Division. This collection documents the development of library services in the Akron and Summit County area. It demonstrates the vital role the library has played in our community for more than 100 years.

You can browse the images by any of the seven themes listed below. You can also search for a specific image by selecting the Search Digital Images link below.

Early Akron Libraries - Before Akron hosted a free public library, there was a subscription library serving the area. This institution demonstrated the people's desire for library services. more...

Main Library - In 1874, City Council passed an ordinance to provide a free public library for Akron. In 1898, the newly established public library moved from the Masonic Temple to the second floor of the Everett Building at Main and Market Streets. more...

Branches & Mobile Services- From 1910 to 1920 Akron’s population tripled. Along with this increase in residents came a greater demand for library services. The first branch library was established in 1920 in one of the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company factory buildings. more...

Materials & Services for All - Libraries have always been about more than books. Even during its formative years, the Akron Public Library offered books, reference service, and programming tailored to the needs of the community. more...

Changing Technology - Access to information is the Library’s primary goal, but the methods for achieving this goal have evolved significantly from the days of the card catalog. more...

Art at the Library - The Akron-Summit County Public Library has maintained a commitment to supporting local artists by acquiring and installing their works at Main Library and its branches. As the new Main Library was being planned and constructed, local artists were commissioned to create works to be permanently installed in the new building. more...

Services to Children & Teens- Serving children and teens is an important aspect of the library’s mission. Prior to 1913, the Akron Public Library had no children’s department, only a few shelves in the library had been set aside to house children’s books. more...